On March 3, the first section of the World Trade Center Transportation Hub officially opened its doors to the public, welcoming visitors inside its ribcage-like center.
Designed by architect Santiago Calatrava, the massive structure took 12 years and over $4 billion to construct. This makes it the most costly train station in New York City. In comparison, Grand Central Terminal cost $80 million, roughly half as much as the hub with consideration of inflation-adjusted prices.
As one would expect, given its hefty price tag, the station is undeniably beautiful. Even the most hard-headed critics can agree on that. Its spiny infrastructure, as Calatrava has stated, resembles a bird being released from a child's hand. It has also been compared to the backbone of a dinosaur, as well as a whale skeleton.
Just take a look for yourself with some of the most beautiful photos on Instagram:
